Whenever people ask me what my style philosophy is, I always say it’s about mastering the art of the high-low mix. That means stocking up on affordable basics, but also treating myself every once in a while to a more expensive, high-quality piece that will last forever. I’ve had my Gucci loafers for 15 years – and I still love them! It’s all about getting the cost per wear down super, super low – so think about pieces like the perfect pair of jeans, a bag you’ll wear forever, or shoes that make a statement.
It might seem super-far away, but I’ve already got my mind on fall dressing. That means the perfect pair of jeans will work now with tank tops and sandals, and later with chunky sweaters and boots. Frame’s Le Mini Boot mid-rise jeans is a great indigo wash, and the slight flare makes it super versatile. If your ideal jean is something more cropped, Mother’s high-rise Hiker Hover jean is something out of our straight-leg dreams. A Frank & Eileen button down would look beautiful with either silhouette.
Ballet flats are back this season, which only reminds me that Chanel flats never go out of style. I love this cream-and-black pair, which look great with everything from jeans to cigarette pants to dresses. And of course, there’s the Gucci loafer. I love the rich chocolate color and collapsible heel on their Brixton model. If you’re ready to dip your toe into the heels game again, Gucci’s sensible-but-stylish mid-heel pump brings serious flair.
I’ve been obsessed with watches lately, ever since reading this biography on the Cartier family, and you can’t go more classic than the Cartier Tank watch in a luxe black leather band with stainless steel accents. Their Balloon de Bleu watch in warm chocolate brown and gold is pretty great, too.
Sometimes, what you want to invest in goes in your bathroom, not your closet. I’m talking about beauty superstars like the Dyson Airwrap complete styler, so you can say goodbye to bad hair days. Or skincare and makeup favorites like Augustinus Bader’s The Cream or Westman Atelier’s Baby Cheeks Blush Stick, so you can put your best face forward.
Shop the rest of our expensive, but worth it edit below:
All of our recommendations are curated by Susan & the In The Groove editorial team. In some, but not all cases, we receive a small commission for leading you to what, how and where to buy all this wonderful stuff.